Investigating small molecules that inhibit cancer cell migration
Official title: Assessment of small molecules as covalent inhibitors of Rac/Cdc42
Funded at University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences · NIH-11056076 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new medicine called CPV-337 to see if it can help stop cancer cells from spreading in people with metastatic breast cancer, building on earlier promising results from another medicine called MBQ-167.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Juan, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $149,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM153660-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056076 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those not diagnosed with breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing small molecule inhibitors that target specific proteins involved in cancer cell migration, which is a key factor in the spread of cancer. The team has previously created a compound called MBQ-167, which has shown promise in reducing tumor growth and metastasis in animal models. They are now exploring a new, more potent inhibitor, CPV-337, to further enhance its effectiveness against cancer cells. The research involves both laboratory experiments and pre-clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of these compounds in treating metastatic breast cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with metastatic breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar small molecule inhibitors in reducing cancer metastasis, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences
San Juan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vlaar, Cornelis P — University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences
- Study coordinator: Vlaar, Cornelis P
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Proteins in brain-supporting cell vesicles linked to HIV-related cognitive issues
A study from the University of Puerto Rico investigates proteins in brain-cell vesicles found in blood and CSF to understand HIV-related cognitive impairment better.
-
Blood-vessel mitochondria and brain inflammation in Alzheimer's disease
This work looks at how tiny powerhouses inside blood‑vessel cells may trigger inflammation that worsens Alzheimer's for people with the disease.
-
Fh15-based therapy to calm inflammation in sepsis and ulcerative colitis
A research project tests a molecule from a parasitic organism (Fh15) to reduce harmful inflammation in adults with sepsis or ulcerative colitis.
-
p(UG) RNA Quadruplexes and ALS: How RNA shapes stress granules and TDP-43 pathology
Aimed at people with ALS, this grant tests how a specific RNA shape helps stress granules form and how that affects disease-related TDP-43 changes.
-
Tech-enabled Aids to Help Older Adults Stay Independent
A 3-year program tests a low-cost, group-based assistive technology approach to help adults 65+ stay independent by improving daily activities and quality of life in primary care clinics.
-
Clinical and Technology Resources Core expands access to clinical research facilities and technology across Alliance institutions
A multi-institutional core will provide researchers with access to clinical trial units, cutting-edge tech, facilities, and training to advance patient-focused clinical research.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.